Inspired by Tairua harbour, Bishop Bruce Gilberd will release his first children’s book, Ka the Falcon, next month.

The story is told through the eyes and from the memory of Ka, a New Zealand falcon, and leads the reader through the physical formation of Aotearoa and the Coromandel Peninsula, and the settlement of our Maori and Pakeha ancestors.

Bishop Bruce brings together the geological, scientific, historic and archaeological significance of the Coromandel for all age groups to enjoy by adding footnotes to the story-line.

With his love for teaching, he hopes his book will be educational for younger and older generations.

‘‘A grandfather could read Ka the Falcon to his 6-year-old granddaughter. I believe both will get something out of the book,’’ he says.

The idea for the book came to Bishop Bruce 14 years ago.

A local librarian, Emma Darragh, put him in touch with a publisher, resulting in an informative yet delightful book.

‘‘I’m crowing a wee bit because I’m thrilled with it myself,’’ Bishop Bruce says.

The book will be launched on Thursday morning, November 13, at the Tairua Library.

Bishop Bruce will visit schools and sell his book for $25 at markets throughout the Coromandel. He can be contacted at brucepat@xtra.co.nz.